Super Falcons head coach Justin Madugu says his team is fully focused on victory as they prepare to face Benin Republic in the final qualifying fixture for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), Bold Sports reports.
Speaking during his pre-match press conference at the Togo Football Association Headquarters, Madugu emphasised that the team’s mindset remains consistent, to win every game they play.
“Each time we prepare for a game, the ultimate goal is to win. For us, this game is not anything different, we are preparing to win,” Madugu said.
The coach stressed that the Falcons are not taking their opponents lightly, noting the importance of the fixture as part of the qualification pathway to both the next WAFCON and the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
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“We are not taking anything for granted. We are fully aware that this qualifier leads you to the next WAFCON and the next WAFCON leads you to the World Cup. We are fully aware of that and that’s why we are not taking anything for chance. There’s no room for complacency.”
Reflecting on Nigeria’s record-extending 10th WAFCON title, won earlier this year in Morocco, Madugu stated that the team has since turned its focus to new challenges ahead.
“For us, that is already history. It’s a new phase we are starting. We are carrying the motivation from the last tournament into the new challenge that is ahead of us. It is our wish that we retain the trophy and qualify for the World Cup.”
The head coach also cautioned against underestimating Benin Republic, acknowledging their strength and the quality of their players.
“On the field of play, we can’t underate anybody. Benin Republic are here because they defeated teams, so they deserve a lot of respect. We are not looking at them as a lesser fancy team because it is not South Africa or Morocco. As far as we are concerned, they are reputable opponents.”
“I don’t know much about the team but I know looking at the caliber of players they have, some of them play outside the country. This is why they must be given respect,” he added.
The Super Falcons will face Benin Republic in the first leg of their WAFCON qualifier on Thursday, October 24, at the Stade Kégué in Lome, with the return leg slated for Tuesday, October 28, at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex, Abeokuta.
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